Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a wealth of choices right at their doorstep. Both student housing and private residences provide various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently book apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to check out their future accommodations online, along with the amenities and access to public transportation.
During my search for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can escalate to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare rules of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Luckily, I started university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably cutting down our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is tougher to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities contribute to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown in the nucleus of London’s West End serves as a bustling haven with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a handful of exemplary community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.